Miniscrews or palatal implants for skeletal anchorage in the maxilla: comparative aspects for decision making

The advantages and disadvantages associated with placement, orthodontic treatment, and removal of miniscrews and palatal implants should be clearly understood by both the orthodontist and the patient. Device design, preoperative diagnostic measures, insertion and removal procedures, potential suprastructure application, implant migration and success rate, biomechanical anchorage facilities, and comparative risks and complications of both miniscrews and palatal implants must be considered if skeletal anchorage is intended to be used in the maxilla. This article reviews these and other factors to help clinicians decide which device should be selected for each individual case.